Discover Thrust of National Emblem of India: 5 Key Facts

National symbols are the visual embodiment of a nation’s identity. These symbols, like flags or emblems, distil complex histories and shared values into easily recognizable forms. For instance, a national flag’s colours and symbols represent a country’s struggles, victories, and dreams. They play a vital role in fostering unity and pride among a nation’s citizens. For example, India’s Ashoka Chakra, derived from ancient sculpture, symbolizes righteousness—a core cultural value. It prominently adorns the national flag, currency, and government seals, reminding citizens of India’s history and commitment to justice, unity, and progress. This symbol unites people across diverse backgrounds.

What is the National Emblem of India?

The national emblem of India is an adaptation of the Lion Capital of Ashoka, a sculpture originally erected at Sarnath, a place where Gautama Buddha first taught the Dharma. The statue is a three-dimensional emblem showing four lions. It became the emblem of the Dominion of India in December 1947, and later the emblem of the Republic of India. The State Emblem of India is an official seal of the Government of India. The national emblem of India is used on official documents, currency, and passports. The Union government, many state governments, and other government agencies utilize it.

National Emblem Of India: Historical Background

• The origins of the national symbol date back to the third century when the Mauryas ruled India. 
• To spread Buddhist teachings, Emperor Ashoka produced a variety of sculptures and stone carvings, the most notable of which is the Ashoka Lion Capital at Sarnath.
• In 1905, Friedrich Oscar Oertel discovered the pillar. When excavating, he found three remnants of the Ashoka Pillar of Sarnath.
• The Sarnath Museum currently houses the entire upper half of the Lion Capital that was found.

Symbolism and Elements Within the Emblem

The State Emblem of India is an adaptation of the Lion Capital of Asoka at Sarnath. In the original emblem, four lions are standing back to back on a circular abacus that rests on a bell-shaped lotus. The frieze of the abacus has sculptures in high relief of an elephant, a galloping horse, a bull, and a lion, separated by intervening Dharma Chakras.

The current State Emblem of India was adopted on January 26, 1950. It depicts four Asiatic lions standing back to back on the abacus. The lions are mounted on a circular abacus with the Dharma Chakra in the centre, a bull on the right, and a galloping horse on the left. Outlines of Dharma Chakras are also visible on the extreme right and left. The final design omitted the bell-shaped lotus. The motto Satyameva Jayate, which means ‘Truth Alone Triumphs,’ is written in Devanagari script below the profile of the Lion Capital and constitutes an integral part of the State Emblem of India.

What does the National Emblem reflect?

1. The lions standing back to back symbolize power, courage, confidence, and faith.
2. The 24 spokes of the Dharmachakra symbolize the progress and evolution of human civilization.
3. The bull represents Taurus, Buddha’s zodiac sign.
4. The horse represents his riding out from the fortress where Jesus delivered his first sermon.

Role in Government and Official Use

The emblem of India, which shows the Ashoka Chakra, has an important role in how the government works and in official papers. You can see it in government buildings, currency notes, it’s often on official documents. Usage of the emblem is regulated and restricted under the State Emblem of India (Prohibition of Improper Use) Act, 2005, under which no individual or private organisation is permitted to use the emblem for official correspondence. This is because it’s a big symbol of India’s power and control.

It also reminds everyone that India follows rules and democracy. On official papers, it’s a way of saying that this is important and real. The national emblem is like a flag for the Indian government. It shows that they are in charge, follow certain values, and are here to make things fair and united.

Buildings that feature the national emblem of India

• Parliament House
• State Legislature
• Rashtrapati Bhawan
• Raj Bhawan or Raj Niwas
• Supreme Court
• High Courts
• Central Secretariat Buildings
• Secretariat Buildings of the State Governments or UT Governments.
• House of the Indian Diplomatic Missions Abroad
• The Indian Consulates in Foreign Countries authorize Entrance Gates of the Buildings.
• Premises of the Heads of Missions representing India in other countries.

Adoption of the National Emblem of India

Incorporating the Indian national emblem, featuring the Ashoka Chakra, into official use occurred on January 26, 1950, coinciding with the noteworthy enactment of the Indian Constitution. This pivotal decision marked India’s transition to a republic, which meant a transition towards sovereignty and democracy.

Cultural Significance of the National Symbol of India

The emblem is a unifying force, bringing together India’s diverse regions and cultures. It transcends linguistic and geographical boundaries, functioning as a cohesive symbol that binds the nation. Its design, notably the Ashoka Chakra with 24 spokes, symbolizes democratic principles like justice, truth, and equality, reflecting a pivotal moment in India’s political evolution.

Evolution and Alterations Over Time

India’s national emblem, while based on a historical sculpture, has a relatively short evolutionary path.

• Origin: The source of the emblem is the Lion Capital of Ashoka, a 3rd-century BC sculpture from Sarnath. It depicts four lions standing back to back, symbolizing power and righteousness.
• Adaptation: In 1950, when India became a republic, the Lion Capital was adopted as the national emblem. However, for a more practical representation, some elements were modified:
  • The original sculpture featured a bell-shaped lotus below the lions, which was omitted in the emblem.
  • Only three lions are visible in the emblem, while the fourth remains unseen, signifying unity despite hidden aspects.
• Essentially Unchanged: Since its adoption in 1950, the national emblem of India has remained largely unchanged. Its core elements – the lions, Dharmachakra (wheel of law), and the motto “Satyameva Jayate” (Truth Alone Triumphs) – continue to represent the nation’s strength, moral values, and commitment to truth.

National Emblem and Indian Currency

The original national emblem of India, which prominently displays the Ashoka Chakra, is featured on Indian currency notes and coins. Its appearance on these financial instruments goes beyond aesthetics, carrying significant symbolic weight. The emblem’s inclusion on currency notes and coins is a tangible representation of India’s economic stability and strength. This interconnected relationship between currency and the national emblem underscores the dynamic connection between economic prosperity and national pride. It serves as a continuous reminder to citizens that their financial well-being is closely tied to the broader ideals and principles embodied in the emblem.

Also Read:-

Unveiling the Battle of Kalinga: Ashoka’s Turning Point

National Flower of India: The Story Behind India’s Beloved Lotus Flower

The Major Amendments of the Indian Constitution and Their Significance and Purpose

Comparisons with Other National Emblems

The United States and India

• Similarities
  • Use of Circular Elements: Both emblems incorporate circular elements. In the case of the United States, it’s the 50 stars arranged in a circle on the flag, and for India, it’s the Ashoka Chakra, a circular wheel.
  • Symbolic Colors: Both emblems employ specific colours with deep symbolism. In the U.S. flag, red symbolizes valour and bravery, white represents purity and innocence, and blue signifies vigilance, perseverance, and justice. In the emblem of India, the blue Ashoka Chakra represents truth and virtue.

• Differences
  • Design Elements: The U.S. flag consists of stars and stripes, representing the 50 states and their union, while India’s emblem includes a lion capital and the Ashoka Chakra, symbolizing its ancient heritage and principles.
  • Number of Elements: The U.S. flag has 50 stars and 13 stripes, whereas India’s emblem has a single Ashoka Chakra with 24 spokes.
  • Historical and Cultural Context: The U.S. flag draws from its revolutionary and colonial history, while India’s emblem reflects its ancient civilization and the principles of Emperor Ashoka.

Conclusion

The national emblem of India, featuring the Ashoka Chakra, symbolizes unity and reflects India’s commitment to justice, truth, and democracy. While the U.S. emblem represents its recent history and democratic values, India’s emblem echoes its ancient roots and cultural heritage. Both emblems embody their nations’ core values and cultural uniqueness. India’s emblem continues to inspire national pride and unity, guiding the country towards a brighter, more united future.

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